Public Service Announcement
Free Chlorine Burnout of Water System
Leavenworth Waterworks will be implementing a Free Chlorine Burnout with the goal of maintaining the highest possible quality of water throughout our distribution system. This involves temporarily switching from chloramine disinfection to free chlorine disinfection. Additional fire hydrant flushing will take place to speed up this process and resume typical operations as quickly as possible. This Free Chlorine Burnout is scheduled for May 15th to June 19th.
You may experience the taste and smell of chlorine in the water. This is harmless and will subside as the flushing is completed. The water will remain safe to use for all purposes. Customers who use tap water for home kidney dialysis should consult their healthcare provider to advise them if any changes are necessary in their disinfection residual neutralization procedures. Customers using tap water in aquariums should consult their vendors for any necessary changes.
Our mission at Leavenworth Waterworks is to provide safe, reliable, high quality water to our customers with superior service and value. By implementing this free chlorine burnout on an annual basis, we aim to take a more proactive approach to protecting and maintaining a high level of water quality throughout our water system.
For any questions pertaining to the Free Chlorine Burnout please contact:
Leavenworth Waterworks Office – 913.682.1513
Leavenworth South Treatment Plant – 913.727.1902
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Free Chlorine Burn-out?
A Free Chlorine Burn-out is a temporary process that distributes free chlorine in place of combined chlorine (chloramine) throughout the water distribution system as part of routine distribution system maintenance. Free chlorination is a common practice used by water producers using the chloramine treatment method. It is typically performed once or twice per year for a two-to-five-week period to remove biofilms from inside the distribution pipes.
What is Free Chlorine?
Free Chlorine is the use of chlorine only which is a stronger disinfectant than chloramines.
What is Chloramine?
Chloramine is a disinfectant used in drinking water made up of chlorine and ammonia together.
How long will the Free Chorine Burn-out process last?
This is a temporary process done for 3-5 weeks on average.
Is this the first time the City of Leavenworth has used free chlorination?
No, but it will be a greater part of the quality of water we aim to provide going forward and will become regular maintenance for our distribution system.
Do other cities perform free chlorine Burn-outs?
Yes, this is a common industry practice.
Does the Free Chlorine Burn-out change or affect water quality?
No, the drinking water still meets all state and federal water quality standards.
Will I notice a change in my water?
Some people may notice a change in the taste or odor during this time.
Why are you doing this during this time of year?
The process works better as the water temperatures get warmer.
What are the methods for removing chlorine/chloramines from fish aquariums?
You should contact your vendor/pet store or google the process.
What should I do if I use a home kidney dialysis machine?
You should contact your healthcare provider or your doctor.
I noticed the hydrant on my street flowing, is this part of the Free Chlorine Burn-out process?
Flushing fire hydrants is a routine part of the Free Chlorine Burn-out process. As a result, increased flushing may be observed during this time in various parts of the city going forward.
Who can I contact with additional questions or concerns?
Questions will be fielded between the hours of 9am and 5pm Monday through Friday.
The downtown office: 913-682-1513
After hours: 913-727-1902